As a counter-point to all of the Suns detractors, here are 10 crucial must-dos that will enable the Suns to shock the world and beat the Lakers
1. RUN, SUNS, RUN
If the Suns play to their strengths and run, pushing the ball at every opportunity, the Lakers’ length and size will cease to be problematic.
None of the Lakers’ big-men can stay with a fast-paced Suns tempo. As Kenny Smith said correctly on Inside the NBA, if the Suns can keep the game from free-throw-line to free-throw-line, they will be successful. On the other hand, a paint-to-paint game will be all in the Lakers’ favor.
So hand Nash the keys, and take it to top gear!
2. LET RON-RON JACK UP THE 3's
Artest was brought in primarily to guard every opposing team’s best player. While he has done a decent job of that against the likes of Durant, Melo and Deron, he also has the maddening tendency of taking unwise, quick jumpers early in the shot-clock.
He prides himself on being a good long-range marksman (why—I have no idea—particularly with a 33 percent career 3-point average).
The Suns should encourage Artest's thought process and his liking for shooting from beyond the arc.
3. PUMMEL THEIR POINT GUARDS
Most critics agree that this is one area where Phoenix has a distinct advantage. The Fisher/Farmar combo cannot hold a candle to Nash, Dragic, or even Barbosa.
Nash needs to seize the momentum and set the tone for the series in much the same way he did again...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
